The saga continues in the men’s pair at the rowing.
In the semifinals, the South African team had come back from fourth place to lead over the Canadians with only metres to go in the 2Â 000m race. The Canadian boat moved across their lane, clashing oars with the South Africans who then finished fourth.
A protest resulted in Canada being disqualified and South Africa being awarded the vital third place to secure a place in Saturday’s final.
A counter-appeal lodged by the Canadians was unsuccessful but they continued their protest procedure, which has resulted in the case being taken to a special meeting of the Court of Arbitration in Sport at the Hilton hotel on Thursday night at 5pm (South African time).
The basis for continued appeal is unclear, but sources close to the Canadians said that it seems the team feel the rowing federation is not taking into consideration the athletes’ view and although admitting that they did stray out of their lane, it was unintentional and there should be some alternative other than disqualification.
It is presumed that they will seek some form of row-off from the court.
General opinion even within the Canadian support camp is that there is little chance of success in this process, which makes it difficult for South Africa’s Donovan Cech and Ramon di Clemente to focus on preparing for Saturday’s final.
The decision from the Court of Arbitration in Sport will be final. — Sapa
Special Report: Olympics 2004